What is the difference between alpaca fur and fleece?

Alpaca fur and alpaca fleece are both terms used to describe the fiber that comes from alpaca, a South American camelid. However, there are some key differences between the two terms.

- Alpaca fur refers to the outer coat of the alpaca, which is made up of guard hairs. Guard hairs are long, coarse hairs that protect the alpaca from the elements. Alpaca fur is water-resistant and windproof, but it is not as soft or insulating as alpaca fleece.

- Alpaca fleece refers to the undercoat of the alpaca, which is made up of fine, soft fibers. Alpaca fleece is very soft and luxurious, and it is an excellent insulator. Alpaca fleece is also hypoallergenic, meaning that it does not cause allergies in most people.

Because of these differences, alpaca fleece is typically used to make clothing and other textile products, while alpaca fur is often used to make items such as rugs and blankets. However, both alpaca fur and alpaca fleece can be used to make a variety of beautiful and durable products.